Robert Sciarrino/The Star-LedgerNew Jersey Transportation Commissioner James Simpson is shown in this file photo.

PISCATAWAY — Route 18 will be extended through the township thanks to a $28 million project that will make existing stretches of Hoes Lanes and Centennial Avenue connect with Interstate 287, state officials announced today.

State officials said two and a half miles of existing roadway will be rebuilt and 20 intersections will be upgraded for the work that will take until mid-2014 to complete.

Auxiliary turn lanes will be constructed, guide rails will be installed, utilities will be relocated and drainage will be improved, state Transportation Commissioner James Simpson said in a statement released today.

"Completing the extension of Route 18 through Middlesex County will upgrade the safety and operational performance of the entire transportation system in the area, allowing more efficient movement of goods and people in central New Jersey," Simpson said.

Piscataway Mayor Brian Wahler said the state acquired several properties over the last five years, and the township also purchased land for this project.

Two pedestrian overpasses will be built, one at Morris Avenue and another Behmer Road, near Piscataway High School, to ensure the safety of students going to schools.

"I fought for that. Originally the DOT didn't want to build them," Wahler said. He said the new Route 18 will have the same 40 mph speed limit currently in effect on Hoes Lane.